Decision time 580 or 430

[mikec]

Ok so I'm definately going to push the botton on a flash. DDE have them so cheap at the moment I just can't keep the trigger finger still for much longer :D

So I'm definately going to get some of the new PW's to go with the flash as I really want it for off camera work. I could get some Cactus V4's but I really what the ETTL the PW's offer.

So would I regret saving $200 on the 430? I'll mainly be using it for a bit of fill on architectural shots at work or as fill light for my climbing shots. I'm sure I'll expand to a two flash setup eventually so I could add a 580 later once I've done the initial outlay for the 2 PW's I need to get started intially.

Thanks for any advice you can offer.

Cheers,
Mike.

[MarkChap]

Well hard choice,

The 580 has that little bit more punch, can be used as a master (which is no benefit with out a second unit as a slave)

My personal choice would be to go for the extra bit of oomph in the 580

[MrJorge]

A common question. I wanted a flash myself and in the end opted for the 580EXII. Mainly because I didn't think I would ever add another realistically, I wanted the extra flash power. Also, in case I wanted to add another later, I got the 580EXII to master others.

I used my KRudd $900 on it so it was a bit easier for me to justify the decision I guess but ultimately I still think I would have opted for the 580.

[pollen]

The 430EXII actually costs more than the 580EXII, because eventually you'll realise you should have got the 580EXII, and will have to buy it anyway.

Also the 430EXII will frustrate you with its lower power, slower rate of recharge for a given power level, incompatibility with CP-E3/4, inability to rotate 180 degrees both ways

[Darvidanoar]

I went for the 580.

I figured for the extra $150-ish, I'll end up with something that I can't possibly grow out of or expect more from :)

[Colourised]

but im thinking.. do u need the extra punch? and do u need the master/slave function if youre using PWs to trigger it anyway?

just some questions to ponder about :)

[clm738]

Get the 580 then you'll have all the power you need at the moment and won't have any regrets later because you purchased the smaller flash unit. In the end it will save you money in the long run.

[sande]

B & H have $30 off the 430 and $50 off the 580 atm

[Tricky]

Just go for the 580. The price difference isn't enough to justify going for second best.

[jprobertson]

Having both of the units, definitely get the 580exII. The more punch will give you the extra power when it comes to outdoor photography (i was running f/22 with a 580 on 1/2pwr yesterday to provide some fill), as well as having a "high voltage"/extrernal battery pack port, and a built in sync port as well., the fact that it is regarded as a pro piece of kits, means that it has all the necessary weather sealing that you would expect. the build quality is simple superb. you won't be sorry with the 580.

Guaranteed.

[phild]

I agree with the others go with the 580 EX. Extra power never goes astray especially if you're using bounce flash.

[mikec]

Seems unanimous, thanks guys. My bank account thanks you lol

[NicD]

Like everyone else has said, if you can afford it go with a 580. I have both and love my 580 more just for the fact that it is a joy to use.

[mikec]

Well I got the 580 last week, sweet! Still haven't had much oppurtunity to use it yet but I'm going away for 3 weeks in a couple of weeks so I will have plently of time then :D

[David]

Good call going with the 580, lets see some images soon.

[bigdazzler]

always buy the best feature packed flash you can afford in the first instance, then as (if) you add slaves you can buy the cheaper stuff. Best flexibility. :th3: